*Says Election Proof Nigerians Mature To Elect Leaders Without Heavy Security
ELDER statesman, Chief Edwin K. Clark, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, over the peaceful conduct of the state’s local government elections on Saturday, October 5, saying despite the absence of Police participation, the elections held successfully without incidents of violence or disruption.
Clark stressed the significance of the peaceful elections, in contrast with the high-cost, security-heavy governorship election in neighbouring Edo State and called on the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to study this development as a model for reducing election expenses nationwide.
While congratulating the newly-elected chairmen, vice chairmen and councillors, he commended Rivers people for their maturity and patriotism in conducting a peaceful election, hoping that this would be replicated across Nigeria.
Clark, in a statement, said: “I join millions of Nigerians and the good people of Rivers State in expressing gratitude to God for the successful, transparent and peaceful local government elections on Saturday, 5th October 2024.
“It is heartwarming to note the large voter turnout, demonstrating the commitment of the citizens to their democratic rights.
“This achievement, in spite of the deliberate absence of the Police during the elections, shows that the people of Rivers State, and indeed Nigerians, are mature and patriotic enough to conduct elections without the overbearing presence of security forces.
“This stands in contrast to past elections, where significant public resources were expended on deploying security agencies, particularly the Police, to oversee the process.
“It is remarkable that such a large-scale election could be conducted fairly, credibly and peacefully without the loss of life or property. This contrasts sharply with the recent gubernatorial election in Edo State, where over 40,000 Police officers were deployed at great cost, leading to numerous complaints and legal disputes.”
He added: “I call on the Federal Government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to thoroughly study this development, as it may offer insights on how to reduce the high cost of elections in Nigeria.
“My heartfelt congratulations go to all the newly-elected chairmen, vice chairmen and councillors of the local government councils in Rivers State. Their success is a testament to the confidence that the people have in them.
“I also commend Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) for the excellent arrangements that enabled the peaceful conduct of the elections.
“My thanks also go to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring that the security agencies allowed the electoral process to unfold without unnecessary interference.
“This peaceful election should be a source of pride for all patriotic Nigerians, particularly in the face of efforts by unpatriotic elements to derail the process.
“It is regrettable that some members of respected national institutions, such as the Nigerian Police, almost succumbed to these undemocratic plots.
“As we move forward, I urge the people of Rivers State to embrace peace and development. The political crises that have troubled the state over the past year have not been driven by ethnicity, but by the age-old struggle between good and evil, truth and lies.
“It is time to put the past behind and work together for a brighter future.
“At the age of 98, I remain committed to the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria. I hope that the peaceful conduct of the Rivers State elections will serve as a model for other states, with minimal security involvement and without unnecessary intrigue or interference.”
